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Press Release

Ramblers takes its place at woodland table - Independent forestry panel announced

17 March 2011

Today (17 March) the government has announced the formation of an Independent Panel on Forestry Policy in England and has asked the Ramblers chief executive, Tom Franklin, to join the panel of experts.

Britain's walking charity spoke out against previous government proposals concerning the sale of Forestry Commission land and is therefore now welcoming the chance to look at the whole of woodland policy afresh. The panel will have a wide ranging remit to look at policy relating to all of England’s forests not just those owned by the Forestry Commission and will take into account issues including; public access, biodiversity and the protection of wildlife and ancient woodland.

The Ramblers is keen to ensure that the views of community groups who spoke out to protect their local woodlands are listened to and understood by the panel. The charity is also committed to ensuring that public access is at its heart of all discussions; protecting the woodland walk now, and for future generations.

The panel will report back to the secretary of state in Autumn 2011.

Tom Franklin, Ramblers chief executive and panel member, said:

"As chief executive of the Ramblers, the experts on access, I am pleased to join the Independent Panel advising government on the future of England's forests.

"We spoke out against previous proposals and their consequences for the woodland walk and now welcome the chance to look at policy afresh, for all of England's woodlands, ensuring that access is at its heart.

"I am keen to help the panel listen to the views of community groups, large and small, so that all those who visit and enjoy their local woodland can help to shape the future of England’s forests."



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